Imagine a satellite engine that doesn't need expensive, high-pressure gas tanks. Instead, it uses a solid material called iodine, which is like swapping a heavy, pricey scuba tank for a simple block of fuel. This makes satellites cheaper to build and easier to move around in space.
Satellite operators face high costs and technical complexity due to expensive xenon fuel and fragmented propulsion supply chains.
A production-qualified, standalone iodine-fueled electric propulsion system and a method for operating these units in clusters.
If you are a constellation operator dealing with the high cost of xenon fuel — this project developed iodine-fueled propulsion that is almost 100x cheaper. This allows for more efficient maneuvers for the 24,000 satellites expected in the next ten years.
If you are a mobility provider dealing with complex, multi-vendor propulsion subsystems — this project developed a complete, standalone system. It simplifies the supply chain by providing an integrated unit rather than separate parts.
If you are a developer dealing with strict weight and pressure limits for fuel storage — this project developed a system using unpressurized solid iodine. This reduces the mechanical complexity and risk of the satellite's fuel system.
The iodine propellant used in this system is almost 100x cheaper than the conventional xenon propellant.
Yes, the project specifically focused on ramping up production capacity and creating intelligent clusters of industrialized propulsion units.
Based on available project data, the technology is developed and coordinated by ThrustMe, an SME in France.
Unlike conventional suppliers who provide separate subsystems, this is a complete, standalone propulsion system.
The project ran from August 2022 to December 2024, with the goal of serving the wave of industrialized satellites expected by 2028.
The project is led by a single partner, ThrustMe, a French SME. This 100% industry-led structure indicates a direct path to commercialization without the lag of academic transfers, focusing entirely on production ramp-up and market preparation.
Contact ThrustMe in France for commercial inquiries regarding iodine propulsion.
Contact SciTransfer to find similar high-TRL space propulsion technologies.
